Ep 8. Whiskey Time Machine

Tom and his partner-in-moonshining, Josh, team up with old-time shiners Mark and Digger to create a whiskey time machine. Their goal is to transport themselves back in time to the pioneering days of American whiskey-making and try their hand at replicating some of the oldest recipes in the book. To do this, they need to construct a fully functional, 1800s-style whiskey still, complete with old-fashioned wood-fired heat and hand-forged copper parts.

While some of the guys get to work on building the still, others head out to find ingredients for their historic brew. Mark and Digger scour the woods for the right kind of springs and streams that would have been used in the original whiskey-making process, while Tom and Josh brave dangerous terrain to look for the perfect wild grains to add to their mash.

The project is not without its challenges, as the guys have to figure out how to build a still that will meet modern safety standards while still being historically accurate. They also have to deal with the unpredictable weather and terrain of the Appalachian mountain range, as well as the prying eyes of local law enforcement.

Despite the obstacles, the group is determined to make their time machine a reality. As they work late into the night, they reflect on the history and tradition of moonshining in their families and communities. Tom shares stories about his grandfather, who used to make moonshine in the same hills they are now working in. Mark and Digger talk about the moonshiners who came before them, and the legendary recipes they left behind.

As the project nears completion, the pressure is on to produce a successful batch of whiskey. The guys carefully monitor the fermenting process, making sure the mash doesn't get too hot or too cold. Finally, it's time for the big moment: distilling the whiskey.

The team fires up the still and waits anxiously as the first drops of clear, colorless whiskey flow out into the bucket below. Everyone gathers around to taste the freshly distilled spirit, eager to see if it lives up to their expectations. The flavor is complex and layered, with hints of vanilla, oak, and spice. The guys are impressed with the quality of their creation, and proud of the history they've helped to preserve.

Overall, "Whiskey Time Machine" is a fascinating look at the history and craft of moonshining, and a celebration of the ingenuity and perseverance of those who have pursued this trade for generations. It's a testament to the power of tradition and the enduring legacy of American whiskey-making.